Please attend the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (MAFMC) Hearings in Philadelphia on August 14, 2019
“River Herring and Shad Update and Cap Review” from 2:30-4:00 pm
The Notary Hotel, Autograph Collection
The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (MAFMC) is reviewing current protections for river herring and shad and considering doubling the cap on the number of these species that can be taken as “by-catch.” If this happens, these forage fish populations that spawn in the Delaware then migrate to the ocean would be depleted, costing sea and shorebirds critical food sources.
The MAFMC is holding open hearings in mid-August and accepting public comments on this potential action. Last year, an Audubon contingent attended a similar meeting that resulted in stronger fishing regulations that helped forage fish, and in turn, birds. Audubon member comments featured prominently in the meeting notes and undoubtedly helped to sway the decision. Audubon and our conservation partners are hoping to again have a strong presence at this year’s hearings.
What is needed and will help:
- Those who are willing to simply attend as a show of support.
- People to prepare and submit written testimony
- Most importantly, individuals who are willing to step up to prepare and provide oral testimony at the hearing on August 14th.
It is extremely important that we provide statements that emphasize the importance of protecting forage fish for birds and the local economy.
Can you participate?
Click on the link below for additional information that you can reference if you can attend the hearing on August 14th.